Guwahati, Nov 27 (V7N) – Assam’s state assembly has passed the Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025, banning polygamous marriages across the state, with penalties of up to 10 years in prison. The law defines polygamy as marrying another woman while the first marriage is legally valid, or before divorce proceedings are completed.
 
The bill applies to all religions, except in areas under the Sixth Schedule for Scheduled Tribes. Offenders must also pay compensation to women affected by illegal polygamous marriages. Repeat offenders and those who facilitate or conceal such marriages face additional penalties.
 
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized that the law protects women and is not directed against any religion. The bill was passed despite opposition lawmakers walking out of the assembly.
 
This move is seen as part of Assam’s broader agenda to promote social justice and may lead to future legal reforms, including a possible Uniform Civil Code.
 
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